10 Best Guided Journals 2026 in the United States

The INSIDE THEN OUT Better Every Day Journal is designed for anyone seeking a structured way to enhance their self-care routine and mental wellbeing. With 365 guided prompts, users can explore themes like self-love, reflection, growth, and mindfulness on a daily basis. This broad range of topics makes it suitable for individuals at different stages in their personal journey, whether they’re new to journaling or looking to deepen their practice.

A notable strength of this journal is its pre-dated pages, allowing users to start journaling at any time without feeling pressured to maintain a strict schedule. This flexibility is beneficial for those who may worry about missing days. The hardcover and premium vegan leather design, combined with gold detailing and a ribbon bookmark, make it visually appealing and durable, catering to users who appreciate aesthetics and quality in their journaling materials.

On the downside, the journal's size (5.8” x 8.5”) may not suit everyone’s portability needs. While it’s compact enough for a bag, those looking for a smaller, pocket-sized option might find it a bit bulky. Additionally, the structured prompts might not appeal to seasoned journalers who prefer a more free-form style of writing. For these users, the rigor of daily prompts could feel restrictive. If you’re searching for a guided journal that combines meaningful prompts with an attractive design, this journal could be a great addition to your daily routine.

The Five Minute Journal by Intelligent Change is a well-structured guided journal designed for individuals looking to cultivate gratitude and mindfulness in just a few minutes each day. One of its key strengths is the ease of use with clear prompts that guide you through daily appreciation and reflection, making it accessible for those new to journaling. The journal is undated, allowing users to start at any time without feeling pressured by dates, which enhances its versatility. With a chic design and quality materials, including a linen fabric cover and sustainable paper, it appeals aesthetically and is environmentally conscious, adding to its charm.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The journal’s size, while portable at A5 (5.8 x 8.3 inches), may not be suitable for everyone who prefers a larger writing space. Additionally, while the prompts are designed for daily use, some users may find them repetitive after an extended period, which could lead to a loss of engagement over time. The focus on gratitude and positivity may not resonate with everyone, especially those looking for a more comprehensive or varied journaling experience.

For anyone seeking a simple yet effective way to build a daily habit of gratitude and reflection, this journal is a solid choice. It is especially suitable for adults new to journaling or those looking to gift a thoughtful product to friends or family.

The Big Life Journal - Second Edition is designed to nurture a growth mindset in children aged 7-10. Its core purpose is to help kids build confidence and see challenges as opportunities for growth. The journal excels in offering positive psychology through prompts that encourage persistence and self-belief. It includes interactive activities meant to be shared with a journal buddy, fostering connections with parents or grandparents. This aspect can be particularly valuable for family bonding and communication.

The structure of the journal, with its guided prompts and fun activities, is well-suited for children. It not only engages them but also makes the journaling process more enjoyable and educational. Additionally, the journal is accompanied by the Big Life Kids Podcast, which provides a multisensory learning experience and can enhance the journaling activities.

In terms of design and aesthetics, the journal is visually appealing with a durable hardcover and high-quality paper, making it a lovely keepsake. The Big Life Journal - Second Edition is a valuable tool for fostering a positive mindset in children, making it a great choice for parents and educators looking to encourage growth and resilience in young minds.